The moment you take a deep breath, inhaling the earthy aroma of simmering split peas mingled with a medley of vegetables, you know something magical is happening in your kitchen. When you whip up a pot of Vegan Split Pea Soup, it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Each spoonful is a warm hug, nourishing both body and soul, while the vibrant green hue makes your bowl look like it belongs in an Instagram post.
Now, let’s be real; this isn’t just any soup. It’s the kind that brings back fond memories of family gatherings, where laughter fills the air, and every bite reminds you of home. Perfect for those rainy afternoons or as the star attraction at your next dinner party, this Vegan Split Pea Soup promises a flavor experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting Vegan Split Pea Soup is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep.
- Its rich flavor profile combines earthy split peas with aromatic herbs and spices for a delightful taste sensation.
- The vibrant green color makes it visually appealing and inviting to all.
- Enjoy it as a hearty lunch or dinner option that’s versatile enough to pair with crusty bread or serve as a starter.
Ingredients for Vegan Split Pea Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Green Split Peas: These little legumes are packed with protein and fiber, making them the star of the show.
- Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over flavor and saltiness in your soup.
- Carrots: Chopped carrots add sweetness and color, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.
- Celery: Diced celery brings crunchiness and freshness to balance the creamy texture of the peas.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion forms the aromatic base that elevates the soup’s flavors.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth and zest that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Thyme: Dried thyme infuses an earthy aroma that ties all the flavors together in harmony.
- Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves add subtle complexity but remember to remove them before serving
How to Make Vegan Split Pea Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and toss in your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they become tender and fragrant—about five minutes should do the trick.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Once your vegetables are tender, it’s time to introduce garlic into the mix! Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic. Your kitchen should smell like heaven by now!
Step 3: Stir in Split Peas
Next, add those fabulous green split peas into your pot along with dried thyme, bay leaves, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients—this is where the magic starts happening!
Step 4: Let It Simmer
Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Cover your pot and let it simmer for about an hour—this gives your soup time to thicken up beautifully while allowing those flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a creamier texture (and who doesn’t?), use an immersion blender right in the pot or transfer portions into a blender carefully until smooth.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Finally, taste your creation! Adjust seasoning if needed; then serve hot with crusty bread or fresh herbs on top for garnish! Transfer to plates and drizzle with olive oil for that perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it—your very own Vegan Split Pea Soup masterpiece ready to warm hearts (and tummies) alike! Enjoy every flavorful sip!
You Must Know
- This delightful vegan split pea soup is more than just a warm hug in a bowl; it offers hearty nutrition and rich flavor.
- You can easily adjust the spices based on your taste preferences.
- It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping for the week.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add split peas and broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until tender. Finally, blend for creamy goodness or leave chunky for texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your vegan split pea soup with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or add diced carrots and celery for extra crunch. Crunchy Celery Salad A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store your vegan split pea soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, let the soup simmer longer to develop a rich taste.
- Always rinse your split peas before cooking to remove any debris.
- If you want it creamier, blend half of it before serving.
Sometimes I make this soup when friends visit, and their delighted reactions make my kitchen feel like a cozy café! Cooking can create such warm connections.
FAQs :
What are the main ingredients in Vegan Split Pea Soup?
Vegan Split Pea Soup features simple yet nutritious ingredients. The primary component is green or yellow split peas, which are packed with protein and fiber. You’ll also need aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery to build flavor. Garlic adds depth, while vegetable broth provides a savory base. Summer Vegetable Soup Herbs such as thyme and bay leaves enhance the soup’s taste, making it comforting and hearty. You can also add spices like black pepper for an extra kick. Optional ingredients include diced potatoes or leafy greens for added texture and nutrients.
How long does it take to cook Vegan Split Pea Soup?
Cooking Vegan Split Pea Soup typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. First, soak the split peas for a few hours or overnight to reduce cooking time. If you use dried peas directly, expect them to simmer for at least 60 minutes until they become tender. Using a pressure cooker can speed up this process significantly, reducing cooking time to approximately 15-20 minutes. Always check the peas for doneness; they should be soft and break apart easily when stirred.
Can I freeze Vegan Split Pea Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Vegan Split Pea Soup for later enjoyment! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of each container since liquids expand when frozen. Properly stored, the soup will maintain its quality for about three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave until hot.
Is Vegan Split Pea Soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Vegan Split Pea Soup is naturally gluten-free as it mainly consists of split peas and vegetables without any wheat-based products. However, always double-check that your vegetable broth is gluten-free if you’re using store-bought options since some brands may contain gluten-derived ingredients. This makes the soup a perfect choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease while still offering rich flavors and hearty nutrition.
Conclusion for Vegan Split Pea Soup :
Vegan Split Pea Soup is a wholesome dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrition. With its star ingredient being split peas, this soup offers a delicious balance of protein and fiber. Preparing it takes about an hour on the stovetop or less with a pressure cooker, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Freezing leftovers allows you to savor this comforting meal anytime. Enjoying a bowl not only warms you up but also contributes positively to your health—making it a favorite in many homes!
Vegan Split Pea Soup
Vegan Split Pea Soup is a wholesome, nourishing dish that combines earthy split peas with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days or meal prep, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures in every spoonful. Rich in protein and fiber, it’s an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings, ensuring everyone enjoys a warm, hearty meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 cup green split peas
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine ingredients: Add split peas, thyme, bay leaves, and vegetable broth; stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 60 minutes until peas are tender.
- Blend (optional): For a creamier texture, blend half the soup using an immersion blender or transfer portions to a blender until smooth.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot with crusty bread or fresh herbs on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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